Matthew 26:47-50

Betrayal and Arrest

26:47 While he was still speaking, Judas, ¹  one of the twelve, arrived. With him was a large crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent by the chief priests and elders of the people. 26:48 (Now the betrayer ²  had given them a sign, saying, “The one I kiss is the man. ³  Arrest him!”) ⁴  26:49 Immediately ⁵  he went up to Jesus and said, “Greetings, Rabbi,” and kissed him. ⁶  26:50 Jesus ⁷  said to him, “Friend, do what you are here to do.” Then they came and took hold ⁸  of Jesus and arrested him.

[26:47]  ¹ tn Grk “behold, Judas.” The Greek word ἰδού (idou) has not been translated because it has no exact English equivalent here, but adds interest and emphasis (BDAG 468 s.v. 1).

[26:48]  ² tn Grk “the one who betrays him.”

[26:48]  ³ tn Grk “The one I kiss is he.”

[26:48]  ⁴ sn This remark is parenthetical within the narrative and has thus been placed in parentheses.

[26:49]  ³ tn Here καί (kai) has not been translated.

[26:49]  ⁴ sn Judas’ act of betrayal when he kissed Jesus is especially sinister when it is realized that it was common in the culture of the times for a disciple to kiss his master when greeting him.

[26:50]  ⁴ tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

[26:50]  ⁵ tn Grk “and put their hands on Jesus.”